Amenorrhea is the condition in which there are no menstrual periods or Absence of menstrual periods or missed menstrual periods. A healthy uterus, cervix or opening to the uterus, vagina, and ovaries, Pituitary gland and hypothalamus, are required for having a proper menstrual cycle. An abnormality in any of these may keep a woman from having a period.
Types of amenorrhea:
There are two types of amenorrhea:
Primary amenorrhea: In this the female does not start her menstrual cycle by the age 16.
Secondary amenorrhea:
In this the menstrual cycle stops in the woman who had regular menstrual cycles previously.
What are the signs and symptoms ?
Amenorrhea is not a disease. It is often caused by a hormone imbalance; it may trigger other symptoms, such as:
- Weight gain
- Excess body and facial hair
- Breast milk secretion
- Changes in sex drive
- Acne
What are the causes for Amenorrhea?
The reason for this delay is generally not known, though it may be a family history. Other possible causes include a hormonal problem, such as an improperly functioning thyroid gland or Pregnancy.
Often the cause of amenorrhea is that the ovaries do not release eggs (ovulate). If you are not ovulating, your ovaries only release the hormone estrogen and do not produce progesterone, a hormone necessary for periods to occur.
How is it diagnosed?
A complete medical history and a physical exam is done. Your doctor may also recommend
- Pregnancy test
- Hormone test
Special blood tests if you are 14 and have not developed breasts or pubic hair.
- blood tests if you have breast discharge, headaches, vision changes, too much body hair or weight.
What are the treatments for the condition?
If amenorrhea has lasted less than 6 months, a woman may not need treatment unless some problem is found:
- in her hormone levels
- on X-ray or ultrasound
- Depending on the cause of amenorrhea, treatment varies.
- Diet and exercise generally correct abnormal periods due to obesity. Stress management.
- Medicines based on the condition will be prescribed. Surgery may be required in some conditions like
- tumors
- cysts in the ovaries
- defects in the uterus or vagina.